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"We are yet to identify all the vehicles that have actually come into contact with that person, and I would ask that anyone who was on that road at that time who was potentially involved to please come forward, phone 101, and explain to us exactly how you have been involved in this."

How many casualties were there?

A spokesman from South Western Ambulance Service said: "Just before 6.30am this morning the trust was called to reports of a serious crash on the M5 near Wellington.

"We responded with 15 resources including six ambulances, four rapid response vehicles, two officers, two air ambulances and one BASICS doctor.

"There are 10 patients in total. The carriageway is likely to be closed whilst emergency services are at the scene, please avoid the area."

It is believed that two casualties were taken to Southmead Hospital in Bristol, while the other eight went to Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton.

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For how long was the motorway closed?

The police described the investigation into the incident as 'complex' and the motorway was closed in both directions for 10 hours.

They said that there were a number of vehicles that required moving off the northbound carriageway and they thanked the public for their patience and understanding while the work at the complex scene was carried out.

What do we know about Elaina Beard?

The victim of this collision was Elaina Beard from Bridgwater. She has been described as a "passionate" carer, who worked for Bluebird Care.

Her family released a statement that shared their feelings at the tragic news. It read: “We are totally heartbroken at the loss of our Elaina.

“She was a loving sister, daughter, auntie and friend, who was so caring both as a carer in her day job and a family member.

“Even as we write this it still doesn't seem real that she was taken away from us so early."

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"As a result of that initial collision, one of the drivers has exited a vehicle and then been hit by further vehicles and is now deceased.

"We are yet to identify all the vehicles that have actually come into contact with that person, and I would ask that anyone who was on that road at that time who was potentially involved to please come forward, phone 101, and explain to us exactly how you have been involved in this."